Brooding, the alcohol feels more evident than on the 2009, although they are both the level, but it is well balanced by plush damson fruit, olive paste, cocoa bean, espresso and smoked earth. Good quality if a little...

Served blind, I'd think this was a top Hermitage due to its smoky character, topped with mint, peppery herbs, barbecued meat, black currants, blackberries, along with a hint of blueberry. The palate is rich, full-bodied...

As with the 2011, this is pretty much ready to go, although a very different style, with fatter fruits, less elegant but more fruit-forward, enjoyable ripe blackberries and blueberries, touches of liqourice and smoked...

The second wine of Château Pichon-Longueville is soft, perfumed and delicious. It's a wine with plenty of juicy fruit, though at this stage the wood is too dominant. The finish shows a hint of spice. ROGER VOSS

Impressive concentration for this appellation with aromas of prunes, plums and black pepper. Full body, with round and velvety tannins and a long finish. Tight. Better after 2015.

The 2012 La Tour Carnet is gorgeous. Dark red stone fruits, flowers and sweet spices are some of the notes that inform this soft, pliant wine. I expect the 2012 will develop a further range of exotic aromas and flavors as...